Torrential rains in West Bengal’s Darjeeling have unleashed widespread devastation, triggering massive landslides that have claimed at least nine lives, with fears that the toll could rise further, officials said on Sunday.Photos and videos circulating online showed the impact of incessant heavy rains in the Darjeeling hills, triggering multiple landslides that destroyed homes, damaged roads, and cut off several remote villages.
Homes and tea gardens buried under debris
In the Mirik-Sukhiapokhri area, a major landslide swept away homes and tea garden quarters, burying them under a thick layer of mud and debris.Villages such as Bishnulal Gaon, Ward 3 Lake Side, and Jasbir Gaon were among the worst affected. Rescue operations are underway, but the challenging terrain and continuous rainfall have hampered efforts.
“The terrain is slippery, and there are reports of several houses being damaged. The extent of damage is yet to be ascertained,” a senior police officer told PTI.
Bridge collapse and road blockages
The Dudia Iron Bridge, a crucial link between Mirik and Kurseong, collapsed due to the heavy rains, cutting off access to several areas. Other vital routes, including the main road at Dilaram and Whistle Khola in Kurseong, have been blocked by landslides, isolating communities and disrupting transportation.
Rescue and relief operations
District authorities have set up temporary relief camps and mobilized medical teams in coordination with local NGOs to provide food and shelter to the displaced families. However, the ongoing rain and challenging conditions continue to impede rescue efforts.
Severe weather warnings and ongoing threats
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts until October 6, warning of possible landslides and road blockages due to the saturated soil and steep terrain.The continuous rainfall since Friday night has triggered multiple incidents of soil erosion and smaller slides across the hills, damaging sections of key roads and isolating several tea garden settlements.
Calls for assistance and support
Local officials and residents are urging the government and relief organizations to expedite aid and support to the affected areas. The situation remains dire, and continued rainfall poses ongoing risks to the already vulnerable communities in the region.As the rescue operations continue, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with various agencies to provide assistance and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
PM expresses condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the tragedy in Darjeeling, saying, “Deeply pained by the loss of lives due to a bridge mishap in Darjeeling. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”“The situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is being closely monitored in the wake of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected,” he added.